Intense winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 households without power and forced officials to call off over 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are affecting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, according to the national weather agency.
New Zealand authorities have released infrequent severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in central regions including Canterbury and Wellington.
People have been urged to avoid going outside, refrain from journeys, and make arrangements for additional electricity and network failures.
Extensive Impact and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting residences mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Regional news have stated that in various locations structures have suffered roof damage, while utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gales.
In Wellington, a individual was lost his life after being impacted by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a female was swept into oncoming traffic on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was captured in a popular vehicle recording.
Air travel entering and leaving the urban area have been cancelled because of the winds, whereas some roads and libraries are also closed.
Simultaneously local leaders have declared a state of emergency, to assist recovery activities.
Strike Action Alongside Extreme Conditions
The wild winds on Thursday occur while numerous of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been called a "significant labor action", requesting higher wages and enhanced employment terms.
However the intense climate has forced them to modify various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Comparable winds are impacting Australia, ushering in a period of extreme heat to the remote areas.
Officials have issued fire bans for fear of wildfires.
